In a major crackdown on illicit drug trafficking networks, Shimla police have arrested a Punjab-based interstate drug trafficker with approximately 300 grams of heroin, after a police team raided his residence in Kharar, Punjab.
The accused has been identified as Harpreet alias Harry.
Providing the information, Shimla SSP Gaurav Singh said that the action came after the district police had arrested one individual named Rahul Thakur with 7 g heroin along with Rs 23,000 cash in Shimla on June 10.
“A case under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 was registered against the accused then and an investigation was initiated,” added the SSP.
“During the investigation, a police team thoroughly examined digital evidence such as WhatsApp chats along with financial transactions to establish backward linkages in the supply chain. Investigation revealed that the accused had procured the contraband from Harry, who has been involved in drug trafficking,” he said.
The SSP further said, “Based on the evidence, a police team was dispatched to Punjab to nab Harry. The team raided his residence in Kharar, from where approximately 309 heroin was seized along with Rs 61,900 cash.
“Following the seizure, the arrested accused who has been brought to Shimla for further proceedings,” said the SSP.
Revealing the modus operandi of Harry, the SSP said that Harry had been exclusively using WhatsApp to communicate during trafficking drugs.
“To evade the police, he used to get drug money deposited into the accounts of his family members, friends and associates, instead of his own account. He would then withdraw it from their accounts and kept the cash in his possession,” said the SSP.
He mentioned that so far, around 316 g heroin, having a market value of Rs 25 lakh, has been seized with respect to this case and further investigation is under way.
He added that the role of other individuals in this racket is being examined and more individuals will soon be arrested by the police.
